After a successful event in 2011 INCREASE CDC is holding its 2nd annual Entrepreneurs Conference and Expo in Columbus, OH on Thursday October 11, 2012, from 8am-4pm.
The theme for this year’s event is “GROWING YOUR BUSINESS BEYOND”. INCREASE wants to “propel entrepreneurs into a growth phase and prepare for success”, according to the Deonna Barnett, the director of operations.
The event will feature industry experts who will cover such topics as business management, employee recruitment and retention, marketing, and sales. The expo portion of the event will allow exhibitors to display and sell their products and services.
Since 1999, INCREASE Community Development Center has been providing training for entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses. The organization has trained more than 500 individuals and helped over 100 businesses to get started in central Ohio.
“… our underlying motivation is to strengthen our community…” said Executive Director William Carter. “[And to create] businesses that will provide a quality product or service to our community”.
Additional discussion with Deonna Barnett, director of operations:
Why did INCREASE CDC decide to have its first conference and expo last year?
For five years, we have hosted a Business & Community Resources Expo to provide networking opportunities for small business owners. What we realized was that our audience needed more than just networking. They needed educational training, advice and motivation from other entrepreneurs on how to manage and grow their businesses. So we converted that annual Expo (which was a 3-hour evening event) into an 8-hour day event that focused on educating entrepreneurs.
How would you rate the success of last year’s event?
The first year was great! We had phenomenal speakers who not only brought information but inspiration as well. Everyone who attended felt that it was money and time well spent. They also enjoyed the meals we provided! We really need to get the word out about this event this year because it’s going to be even better.
How will this year’s event be different and/or better?
We will have the same format as last year since that worked really well: Breakfast, break-out sessions, lunch, plenary, etc. This year, we are closing out the event with a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs giving their tips and advice for success. We’ll be giving away some great gifts including a flat screen TV and more. Small businesses can promote their products/services not only as an exhibitor but through advertisements in the program book as low as $50.
What sorts of topics will be discussed?
Topics this year include creating partnerships and collaborations; franchising your business; sales strategies; the secrets to becoming great (just to name a few).
Anything else you would like to add?
We’re challenging our attendees to get the word out through social media. If anyone is interested in participating, they can send me an email at dbarnett@increasecdc.org or call (614) 476-1758 to be a part of this event.
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION:
$69 – Full Day Registration
$49 – Half Day Registration (Morning or afternoon)
RESERVE YOUR BOOTH TODAY (space is limited):
$125 – Small Business
$250 – Corporate
To register for the event or to be an exhibitor, go to: INCREASE Entrepreneurs Conference
